This is the fourth time Riven’s seen you on his beach this week. Not because he’s following you or anything, definitely not. It’s just this is his own private section of the beach specifically for his gym.

Riven hasn’t got the heart to tell you you’re technically on private property.

“Quag,” his Quagsire says, tilting her head at him. Riven presses his lips into a thin line, his thumb rubbing along the scar on his cheek absentmindedly.

“I know I’m putting off having a conversation,” he responds. “Thanks for pointing out the obvious, dude.”

“Quagsire.”

“I mean, nothing’s even happening. Maybe I should—“

The Pokemon that’s with you seems to notice him and Riven feels part of him die. Well, can’t put off the talk now. It’s like the world has something against him. All he wants to do is go for a swim and feel the sun on his skin. Is that so much to ask for? He’s aware being a gym leader comes with responsibilities, but he’s only the second one. Most people can’t even beat Seven.

Riven straightens himself out, a smile that’s very well practiced gracing his face. As long as he’s polite you’ll probably understand, right?

The closer Riven gets, the more unsure he feels. He hates the idea of you getting mad. What if you start spreading rumors about him? What if the town starts hating him for being rude? He doesn’t want to be perceived, and definitely doesn’t want anyone to think of him negatively.

“Having fun?” Riven finds himself saying once he’s in front of you. Arceus strike him down now, he thinks. “Sorry. For standing back there. Well, not the standing part, more the ‘staring at you from a distance for longer than what’s considered polite’ part.”

Quagsire smacks his knee like she’s trying to get him to stop talking. Like a fool, Riven doesn’t listen.

“And I really, really hate to sound rude. Like, would rather throw myself off a mountain, but this part of the beach is technically private property.” When is he supposed to shut up? “Actually, you know what, I’m the one bothering you. You’re not even doing anything. No, wait, you’re probably doing something. I meant, like, you’re not hurting anything on the beach so just stay. I’m in your way, aren’t I? Look at me, ruining your time.”

Riven forces a laugh. There’s a reason he doesn’t do small talk with any of the trainers that come to challenge him. The battle usually does that all for him.

“Just keep doing you,” he says. “Keep being awesome.” Even he cringes at his words. His face has gone red and it’s not even from the overbearing Eios heat.